Pakistan’s batting star Babar Azam is featured in the popular Cricket 26 video game. This builds anticipation for his upcoming debut in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL).
The Sydney Sixers, his new franchise, released a promotional video on Instagram showcasing Babar’s in-game avatar alongside Australian great Steve Smith, with a scene celebrating a virtual century.
The franchise is celebrating Babar’s inaugural BBL season uniquely by launching a special fan zone named “Babaristan.” In a social media announcement, the Sixers stated, “Introducing Babaristan — A Fan Zone Like No Other. We’re celebrating cricket culture like never before with Babaristan, dedicated to welcoming one of the world’s greatest cricketers, Babar Azam.”
Fans are invited to experience “Babaristan” during the Sixers’ opening match against the Adelaide Strikers on December 17, 2025.
BBL Season 15 Schedule
Cricket Australia has announced the fixture list for the 15th BBL season. It features 44 matches from December 14, 2025, to January 25, 2026. Most matches are evening fixtures, with breaks only on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Read: Sydney Sixers Sign Babar Azam for Big Bash League 2025
The season will kick off with a blockbuster clash between the most successful franchises in BBL history, the Perth Scorchers and the Sydney Sixers. The game will be at Perth Stadium on December 14. Babar Azam’s presence adds significant intrigue to this opening match.
Pakistani Cricketers in BBL 15
Babar leads a strong contingent of Pakistani players in the upcoming season:
- Shaheen Afridi: Brisbane Heat (first overseas platinum pick)
- Mohammad Rizwan: Melbourne Renegades
- Haris Rauf: Melbourne Stars
- Hassan Khan: Melbourne Renegades
- Shadab Khan: Sydney Thunder
- Hasan Ali: Adelaide Strikers
The inclusion of Babar Azam in Cricket 26 and the innovative “Babaristan” campaign highlight his global marketability. Moreover, the BBL’s ongoing efforts to engage international audiences promise an exciting season ahead for cricket fans worldwide.